Focus simply on the observation of the so call objective appearances that appear in the space of the mind.

When we have difficulty doing this practice, the way to counter is to learn to relax more. OUr prana systems are so wired.

We can also request the blessings of the guru as explained earlier. Alan discusses the so called placebo effect with respect to trust.

After the silent meditation Alan goes on to explain the 9th stage prior to achieving shamatha - attentional balance.

Silent meditation at 14:17 (not recorded) was "front loaded" at the start of the session.